Work-Based Learning at Long Island City High School

At Long Island City High School , providing a foundation for student success in college and career is fundamental to the fabric of the school. Students are encouraged to participate in work-based learning programs during their final year of high school. Work-based learning is an educational strategy designed to help students transition effectively from school into the workforce. The program has offered New York City public school students the opportunity to hone in on workplace skills and gain experience working in diverse fields.

During the beginning of the 2017-2018 school year, seniors on track to graduation were assigned opportunities such as: the school Health clinic, assisting parent coordinators with parent interactions in languages other than English; in Regents prep classes tutoring 9th and 10th grade students; at the Living for the Young Family Through Education (LYFE)Center working with young children; in the Kitchen, Main Office, and at Zone 126. During these internships, students learn about interpersonal communication, professionalism, and teamwork among other skills. I sat down with Ms. Laura Parker, Culinary Arts Instructor and Work Based Learning Coordinator of Long Island City High School’s work-based learning program to discuss the progress and successes of the internships. Ms. Parker noted that as the program advanced, “students have gained a better understanding of time management…and there has been a switch in level of maturity and independence.”

As the work-based learning program grows at Long Island City High School, students will continue to have opportunities to gain critical experiences that will help them succeed when they begin college or their career. Ms. Parker’s vision for the future of the program is to work with students during their junior year to assure that they are being placed at a site that aligns with their interests.